Obituary
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Robert Eugene Nixon, a man of unwavering kindness and integrity, who departed this life peacefully on December 15, 2025. Born on September 13, 1943, in Bloomington, Illinois, Bob’s life was marked by steadfastness, thoughtfulness, and an incredible attention to detail.
Bob grew up on a farm in Farmer City, Illinois, where he graduated from Deland-Weldon High School. His thirst for knowledge led him to the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in 1965, followed by a Master of Business Administration in 1967.
His professional journey spanned 50 years, beginning with a remarkable 32-year career at John Deere. He progressed from the Waterloo facility to the Moline headquarters, ultimately serving as President of the John Deere Insurance Group. Bob then transitioned to Intellicents in Albert Lea, Minnesota, where he dedicated another 18 years to the financial services sector, culminating as Senior Vice President.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bob was a devoted family man. He exemplified the nurturing qualities that bind families together, leaving behind his cherished wife, Joyce, beloved daughters, Tempest Ann Arends (Brad) and Heidi Kay Brandt (Rod), along with his adored grandchildren Amanda, Abbey, Emily, Cody, Zach (Dani Baum), and Joe. He is also survived by his dear sisters Connie Lee Ellis (Tom) and Karen Kay Turner (Gary). To them, he was not just a loving father and grandfather, but a guiding light, instilling the values of thoughtfulness and kindness in all he touched.
A man of faith, Bob worshipped at various churches throughout his life, including Fullerton Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Farmer City, IL where he was baptized. He attended Grace Reform in Waterloo, IA; Pleasant View Baptist Church in Pleasant Valley, IA, and First Presbyterian Church in Albert Lea, MN. His faith was anchored in the words of Jesus Christ, as he found solace and direction in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.”
Bob’s passions included playing cards, reading, cooking, and golf. He had a unique gift for engaging others in rich conversation, always making space for them to share their stories. As an attentive listener, his genuine care was evident through his thoughtful follow-up questions.
Robert is welcomed home to heaven by his parents, Richard Vernelle Nixon and Bernadine Evelyn Toepfer Nixon, as well as his beloved grandparents, Thomas and Lyda Nixon, and Josephine and Henry Toepfer.
As we remember Bob, let us carry forward the kindness and love he so freely shared, honoring his legacy by nurturing connections with those around us.
Our condolences to Joyce and the entire family during this difficult time. May God's peace be with you all.
Bob had a wonderful way of making people feel welcome. He opened his home to us so many times, and he was always an excellent host — warm, caring, and compassionate in the quiet, sincere way that mattered most. And you never left Bob and Joyce’s home hungry — Bob’s wonderful meals were part of his hospitality, made with care and shared with generosity.
Some of our favorite memories are the many evenings spent around the table playing cards, laughing and talking late into the night — often until 1:30 in the morning — never wanting the evening to end. And if Bob and my husband happened to win as partners, Bob would look over with that familiar grin and say, “Good job, partner.” It always made us smile, and we’ll hear his voice every time we think of those nights.
We take comfort in our faith, trusting that Bob is now at peace and held in God’s care. We will miss him more than words can express, but we are grateful for the decades of friendship, kindness, and hospitality he gave so freely. Our hearts are with Joyce, family and all who loved him. Bob’s goodness will stay with us, and his memory will remain a blessing.
Bob had a wonderful way of making people feel welcome. He opened his home to us so many times, and he was always an excellent host — warm, caring, and compassionate in the quiet, sincere way that mattered most. And you never left Bob and Joyce’s home hungry — Bob’s wonderful meals were part of his hospitality, made with care and shared with generosity.
Some of our favorite memories are the many evenings spent around the table playing cards, laughing and talking late into the night — often until 1:30 in the morning — never wanting the evening to end. And if Bob and my husband happened to win as partners, Bob would look over with that familiar grin and say, “Good job, partner.” It always made us smile, and we’ll hear his voice every time we think of those nights.
We take comfort in our faith, trusting that Bob is now at peace and held in God’s care. We will miss him more than words can express, but we are grateful for the decades of friendship, kindness, and hospitality he gave so freely. Our hearts are with Joyce and, family and all who loved him. Bob’s goodness will stay with us, and his memory will remain a blessing.
His patience and intellectual capacity was incredible. He had a pace and timing that was memorizing. Never too fast. Never too slow. A smile or a lean-in at the right time to make you feel electrified. His knowledge able to keep any conversation moving at a comfortable pace. A bubble that you never wanted to leave.
How can a man make you feel like it’s just you and him no matter how many are around? With no request on his part, you naturally wanted to impress him. You wanted his attention, which he gave freely. You wanted a hug. You wanted his wit. You wanted his advice. You wanted his questions. You wanted to just be with him.
I always wanted to be like Uncle Bob. Did I say he was my idol? Man, he was. I thought about him about every week of my professional life. When I lost my temper I would think, ‘Bob wouldn’t have said things that way’. When I needed to lead I would think ‘Do it how Bob would . . . with patience, understanding, and strength’. If I was stressed I would wonder if Bob was ever stressed. If he was in any situation no one ever knew.
When I had a new girlfriend I wanted to go to Albert Lea and show them how impressive my family was. I wanted Joyce to show off her incredible hospitality which she always nails. I wanted Bob to just be him. No doubt they were always blown away.
When other companies were interested acquiring mine, I couldn’t wait to explain the leading deal to him to see if it was a everything I was seeing. He and my Dad spent the day in my office going over details. Bob asked great questions as I knew he would. I was so proud to get his blessing. I felt like I did it. He, along with my incredible Dad both explained how incredible it was and how well we had negotiated. He was particularly proud of how we looked out for our employees and their futures. My chest wanted to burst with the proud feelings.
I always wanted to spend a larger chunk of time with Bob and got a chance last year. I spent 4 days with him fixing the pool, cleaning filters, playing cards . . . him, Joyce, and time alone. I got to live my dream . . . to cover finances and assets with each other. Digging into smart ways to set up this or that. We talked and talked about how we set things up for the future, for our loved ones, and got to celebrate the incredible things each other had done. We talked about God, wealth, successes, and failures and shared things, both defeats and victories that most never talk about.
It was one of the happiest 4 days stints of my life. I love you Bob, and we are so lucky to have had you in our lives.
Joyce we are both sorry to hear the news about Bob. What a blessing how we got to know both of you. Thankful for your friendship. Sending prayers and love during this difficult time.
Jon and Jan Paske